Portland is taking proactive measures to protect against potential violent political protests ahead of the 2024 presidential election. The city is building stainless-steel barricades and forming a new crowd control police unit to ensure the safety of its federal courthouse.
The Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse in downtown Portland has been a focal point for protests and riots since the death of George Floyd in May 2020. To prevent further damage to the courthouse, the city has almost completed the construction of seven large, hinged barricades that can be dropped down in front of the courthouse’s west entrance.
These measures are part of a larger effort to harden facilities and enhance security in preparation for potential unrest. The U.S. Courts’ administrative office emphasized the importance of these steps in protecting the courthouse and its occupants.
The new barricades, estimated to cost $4.5 million, resemble airplane hangar doors with shielded screens on top. In addition to the barricades, renovations to the building’s entryways are also included in the project.
Furthermore, the Portland City Council has approved the creation of a new crowd control unit within the Portland Police Bureau. This unit will respond to protests and other public order events, with team members receiving a 6% pay raise to ensure their readiness and effectiveness.
The formation of this new unit comes after the resignation of the previous Rapid Response Team members in June 2021. The former team faced controversy after one of its officers was charged with assault for allegedly striking a protester’s head with his baton during a protest in August 2020.
Mayor Ted Wheeler emphasized the importance of having a dedicated Public Order Team in place as Portland prepares for the upcoming election season. These proactive measures aim to prevent violence and protect the city’s infrastructure and residents from potential unrest.
